An external logistics provider in the 3PL business model is a trading organization that performs a number of logistics operations separately or in a complex manner, according to https://interteam.com.ua. This includes transportation, storage, order fulfillment, and distribution.
Companies turn to 3PL operators for assistance in transporting goods domestically and abroad; safe storage of goods; cargo escort, including the preparation of a full package of documents; solving problems related to customs clearance; packaging of goods in accordance with international rules.
In addition, the 3PL provider takes care of payment, insurance, and return of goods, as well as provides consulting services.
Compared to the previous category, 4PL companies include a larger number of interaction structures: from the procurement department to accounting. In fact, a 4PL logistics operator takes on the planning and optimization of external and internal logistics for the entire enterprise.
In 4PL logistics, the cargo owner not only informs the third party about the place of departure and destination, but also defines the necessary criteria (for example, meeting deadlines, budget, route definition). Many 4PL operators even provide specialized software as an integrated interface for working with different companies in the client’s supply chain.
